Why do marriages fail? Counselor gives 5 reasons

ABS-CBN News

MANILA, Philippines - For Herald Cruz, counselor at the Center for Family Ministries at the Ateneo de Manila University, there are five reasons why marriages crumble, and eventually fail.

Citing research and his experience in counseling, Cruz said all other issues of married couples can be traced to money woes, sex problems, differences and incompatibilities, unfaithfulness and matters related to in-laws.

"Sa counseling, we try to look at the root cause... Hindi tinuturo kung sino ang mas malaki ang problema. Ang sinasabi namin, it takes two to create a problem, and it takes two to solve a problem as well," he said in an interview on radio dzMM's "Rated Korina" on Wednesday.

"Marriage can give you a taste of heaven as well," added Cruz, who has four children and has been married for 19 years.

Here are Cruz's suggestions on how married couples can address these five problems:

1. Money woes

Signs: Debts and several loans; impulsive buying; not living within your means

Solutions: Don't spend more than what you earn; try to save as much money as you can; consult a financial adviser

2. Sex problems

Signs: Husband/wife is not contented while the other feels it's too much; husband/wife starts to look for another person for intimacy

Solutions: Discuss what is comfortable and enjoyable for you with your partner; go out on regular dates (without the kids) to fuel intimacy

3. Differences and incompatibilities

Signs: More frequent quarrels; spending less time together as a result of being separated by interests